By Cathy Mombourquette, Program Manager, EPIC Genesis Centre

The last six months have been exciting. It’s been a privilege to get to know the students, the staff and faculty, and to start to understand how we can help.

We’ve learned that no two students are alike. We’ve learned that no single approach works everywhere and with everyone. We’ve learned that the University of Windsor and St. Clair College each has its own ecosystem. Things that work at one institution don’t necessarily translate to another, not because they’re bad but because they are different environments. But we’ve learned that some things do work at both, like some of our programs, our workshops and our events, many of which are being offered at both the University and St. Clair campuses.

We’ve reached out to faculty to ask to present to their classes. It was slow-going at first, kinda like dating, getting to know one another. But word spread, and now we can barely keep up with the requests.

Over 120 students have come into the EPIC Genesis Centre asking for our help. Some have an idea for a new product or service, and others want to open their own shop. From one-on-one mentoring to providing networking opportunities, to helping them with their business plans – they’re open to learning, they’re eager, and excited. And we’re eager and excited too.

To keep up with the demand, we’ve added more staff at the EPIC Genesis Centre, including a full time program coordinator and an Entrepreneur in Residence. Together, we’re refining our processes to more efficiently meet the needs of our students and ensure we’re delivering the best services we can, and what works best for St. Clair students. And we’re exploring ways to deliver programs and advisory services at the downtown campus as well.

Watch for more developments, and new programs and events in the coming months. The future is bright!